Havana

Cuba

What to see in Havana

Havana Attractions

With a rich and fascinating history, Havana's sightseeing is
centred around its varied architecture, with everything from
museums and churches to colonial forts and elaborate city squares.
With friendly and colourful people juxtaposed by elegantly
dilapidated buildings and occasionally derelict streets, there's
nothing quite like Havana.

Just breathing in the scents and watching the vintage cars roll
down the streets makes for a great day of sightseeing, but head
into the historic old town, La Habana Vieja, which is a
UNESCO World Heritage Site, to explore the magnificent colonial
architecture. Take in the sights and sounds as you stroll down the
Calle Obispo as this pedestrian boulevard takes you through the
streets, past the Parque Central and to some of the more hidden
away gems of the La Habana Vieja. You can get the best
view of Havana from the Camera Obscura, which provides a 360-degree
look from atop the Plaza Vieja. A stroll along El Malecon
is also a must.

Havana is special for visitors simply because it still feels so
authentic, with a distinct character and little of the tacky
tourist developments that have overrun many other Caribbean
destinations. That said, you'll find plenty of places claiming to
be significant to Ernest Hemingway, few of which actually are. Fans
of the famous author can visit the Ernest Hemingway Museum on the
outskirts of town, set in his lovely old residence.

Visit the cigar factories and rum distilleries to sample some
world-famous Cuban exports, and visit the Plaza de la
Revolución to imagine the historic speeches of political
figures like Fidel Castro. The Museo de la Revolución is
also a must for history buffs. And after a long day of sightseeing
in the city, head to the nearby beaches, most of which are located
no more than 20 minutes away, to soak up some Caribbean sun and sip
on a rum cocktail.

Even non-smokers have to agree that a visit to Cuba would not be complete without investigating the island's most famous export: cigars. The art of cigar-making in Cuba is old and a source of national…

Formerly the Presidential Palace and headquarters of the Cuban government, this impressive building now houses documents, photographs and artefacts pertaining to the Cuban Revolution. The museum provides…

The Bellas Artes Museum was founded in 1913 and is now split into two buildings, both architecturally interesting and impressive, housing International and Cuban art respectively. Both fine art collections…

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